PUPILS from a Vale primary school got to quiz their Westminster representative on a variety of issues following a recent visit from their member of parliament.
Redditch Chris Bloore MP, met staff and pupils at Church Lench CE First School to hear directly from his young constituents about the issues that matter most to them and their community.
During the January visit, Mr Bloore spent time with the school council, where pupils spoke confidently and thoughtfully about a wide range of concerns affecting their day-to-day lives in the village.
These included speeding traffic, unsafe parking near the school, the need for improved school crossings, clearer signage and better street lighting, as well as worries about littering, cigarette waste and the availability of litter bins.
Road safety emerged as a strong theme, with pupils suggesting practical measures such as speed bumps, cameras, improved fencing and clearer signage to help keep them safe, particularly at drop-off and pick-up times.
One pupil was concerned that children do not have a voice in parliament. This prompted a discussion about youth representation and why it is vital that decision-makers listen to children and families when shaping policy.
Another pupil asked about sign language, leading to a wider conversation about inclusion and accessibility.
“I was incredibly impressed by the pupils at Church Lench CE First School. They raised serious issues about road safety, littering, the local environment and whether children feel listened to – all things that affect them every single day.
“Their questions were thoughtful, practical and full of pride in their village. Children do have a voice and it’s my job to make sure that voice is heard in parliament and beyond,” said Mr Bloore.
During the visit he also spoke to headteacher Sam Price and staff about the wider challenges facing rural schools, including pressures on resources, SEND provision and access to sport.
He praised the confidence and maturity shown by school council members and committed to following up the issues raised with the relevant local authorities.
